Abstract: So far, there are two kinds of ways to research soil pressure theory. One is based on limit equilibrium theory and another is based on semi-numerical & semi-analytical method. Classic theories of the soil pressure are obtained by the former, in which soil is regarded as elastomer, rigid-plastic or elastoplastic material. The invalidation of soil is judged by the Mohr strength envelope. In this way, the complex problems become simple. But the theoretical values of soil pressure are different from the actual values. However, for the soil pressure theory based on semi-numerical & semi-analytical method, the function expressions combine with numerical analysis successfully. In contrast with limit equilibrium theory, the later comprehensive considers the distortion of soil, the construction time and the strength index of soil, which make the calculation value of soil pressure in accordance with the actual value. In a word, the semi-numerical & semi-analytical method starts to become new way to research soil pressure.

Key words: soil pressure, limit equilibrium theory, semi-numerical & semi-analytical method, displacement